Radial electrode array

ABSTRACT

A sensor array apparatus for monitoring medical signals includes a flexible substrate adapted to generally conform to a topography of a skin surface. The flexible substrate includes a central portion arranged about a central focal point and a plurality of finger-like projections extending radially outwardly from the central portion. A medical electrode is disposed on at least one of the finger-like projections, preferably, each of the finger-like projections. Connector, in electrical communication with the medical electrode, is adapted to connect to an electronic system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/798,642, filed in the U.S. Patentand Trademark Office on May 8, 2006.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a sensor array apparatus and, moreparticularly, relates to a sensor array apparatus for applying an arrayof electrodes to the body surface of a patient during, for example,maternal and fetal monitoring in connection with intrapartum monitoringand assessment of fetal and maternal well-being.

2. Description of Related Art

Medical electrodes are used to monitor bioelectric signals generated bythe body. Electrodes are often covered or coated by a conductive gel,which serves as an electrochemical coupling agent and enhances theability of the electrode to adhere to a patient's skin. Electrodes areconnected to an electronic system, typically a signal monitoring system,and processed for use and analysis by medical personal.

The quality of the information obtained by each electrode is determinedby the connection between the electrode and patient skin, the placementof the electrode on the patient relative to the signal source andconsistent placement of electrodes relative to each other.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, the present disclosure is directed to an electrode sensorarray apparatus useful in a diagnostic application, e.g., maternal andfetal monitoring, to collect clinical data such as maternalelectrocardiogram (ECG), maternal uterine electromyogram (EGH), fetalheart rate (FHR), fetal ECG, etc. The sensor array apparatus facilitatesaccurate and consistent electrode placement on the patient and ensuresaccurate and consistent placement of electrodes relative to each otherduring successive uses. The sensor array apparatus is adapted to conformto a non planar surface of the body.

In one preferred embodiment, a sensor array apparatus for monitoringmedical signals includes a flexible substrate adapted to generallyconform to a topography of a skin surface. The flexible substrateincludes a central portion arranged about a central focal point and aplurality of finger-like projections extending radially outwardly fromthe central portion. A medical electrode is disposed on at least one ofthe finger-like projections, preferably, each of the finger-likeprojections. A connector is in electrical communication with the medicalelectrode and is adapted to connect to an electronic system.

At least one reference electrode may be disposed on the central portionof the substrate. The reference electrode may be generally aligned withrespect to the central focal point of the central portion. The medicalelectrodes disposed on the finger-like projections are each apredetermined distance relative to the reference electrode when theflexible substrate is applied along the skin surface. Preferably, thepredetermined distances for at least some of the electrodes aresubstantially the same.

The flexible substrate may be generally symmetrically arranged about anaxis of symmetry whereby a finger like projection on one side of theaxis of symmetry has a corresponding finger-like projection on theopposite side of the axis of symmetry. With this arrangement, electrodesdisposed on corresponding finger-like projections on each side of theaxis of symmetry are spaced at substantially equal distances relative tothe reference electrode when the flexible substrate is applied along theskin surface.

The flexible substrate may define at least one reference aperture foraccommodating a body structure. The at least one reference aperture maybe adapted to at least partially encapsulate umbilicus tissue. Theflexible substrate also may define two reference apertures. With thisarrangement, the orientation of the flexible substrate can be rotated toprovide access to the electrical connector from either side of thepatient tissue with one of the two reference apertures partiallyencapsulating umbilicus tissue.

The medical electrodes may be arranged as unipolar medical electrodeswhereby bio-electric information is monitored between at least one ofsaid unipolar electrodes and the reference electrode.

In an alternate embodiment, a sensor array apparatus for monitoringmedical signals includes a flexible substrate defining a central focalpoint, a plurality of medical electrodes disposed on the periphery ofthe flexible substrate and at least one connector in electricalcommunication with the medical electrodes and adapted to connect to anelectronic system. The flexible substrate may include an annular orenclosed member which generally defines a shape selected from a groupconsisting of a circle, triangle, square, rectangle, polygon, or oval. Aplurality of tabs may extend outwardly from the annular member.Electrodes are preferably disposed on each tab and are arranged atsubstantially equal radial distances with respect to the central focalpoint. A reference electrode is preferably mounted to the annular memberof the substrate. The reference electrode may be annular inconfiguration and extend along the annular member of the flexiblesubstrate. With this arrangement, the medical electrodes are each spacedat substantially equal distances with respect to the referenceelectrode.

In an alternative embodiment, a second flexible substrate may beprovided and is adapted for positioning within the first mentionedsubstrate. The reference electrode is disposed on the second flexiblesubstrate whereby bio-electric information is monitored between at leastone of the medical electrodes and the reference electrode. The secondflexible substrate defines at least one reference aperture adapted to atleast partially encapsulate umbilicus tissue. The reference electrodeextends around the inner perimeter of the reference aperture and each ofthe medical electrodes are a predetermined distance along the skinrelative to the reference electrode, whereby the predetermined distancefor each electrode is substantially the same.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the sensor array apparatus are described hereinwith reference to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sensor array apparatus for monitoringmaternal and fetal bioelectrical signals applied to the abdomen of afull-term pregnant woman;

FIG. 2 is a view of the sensor array apparatus of FIG. 1 illustratingthe finger-like projections extending radial outwardly from the centralportion;

FIG. 3 is a view of an alternate embodiment of a sensor array apparatusincorporating a reference electrode surrounding a single referenceaperture;

FIG. 4 is a view of another alternating embodiment of a sensor arrayapparatus incorporating two reference apertures;

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b are views of the sensor array apparatus of FIG. 4applied to the abdomen of a full-term pregnant woman;

FIG. 6 is a view of another alternate embodiment of the sensor arrayapparatus incorporating a central focal point;

FIGS. 6 a, 6 b, 6 c are views of alternate embodiments of the sensorarray apparatus of FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is a view of another embodiment of the sensor array apparatusincorporating first and second flexible substrate associated with thecentral focus point;

FIG. 8 is a view of another embodiment of sensor array apparatus with asecond flexible substrate defining a slot aperture; and

FIG. 9 is a view of another embodiment of sensor array apparatus withfirst and section first section of the flexible substrate associatedwith the central portion and a second portion of the flexible substrateassociated with the periphery.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the presently disclosed sensor array apparatus will nowbe described in detail with reference to the drawing wherein likereference numerals identify similar or identical elements throughout theseveral views.

In general, the sensor array apparatus of the present disclosureincludes medical electrodes to measure or collect data concerningelectrical activity generated within the body. The type of electrodeselected, and the placement of the electrode on the body, will determinethe type of electrical activity measured. Any type of electrode known inthe art may be used with the embodiments of the sensor array apparatusesdescribed herein. The electronic system may be any system known in theart capable of receiving electronic signals. In one preferredembodiment, the sensor array apparatus is a component of an electronicsystem used in the non-invasive monitoring of maternal-fetal health toextract various parameters including maternal ECG, fetal ECG, maternaland fetal heart rate etc . . . to ascertain the health and well being ofthe mother and fetus including such parameters of maternal and fetaldistress, progress of labor, estimation of delivery time, etc. Otherapplications of the sensor array apparatus are also envisioned.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a first embodiment of a sensor array apparatusin accordance with the present disclosure will be discussed. In FIG. 1,sensor array apparatus 100 is illustrated applied to the abdomen 120 ofa pregnant female 110 in connection with a maternal and fetal monitoringprocedure. Medical electrodes of sensor array apparatus 100 are incontact with the abdomen 120 and in electrical communication withelectronic system 150 through connector 140. Electronic system 150receives bio-electrical medical signals from the sensor array apparatus100. The bio-electrical medical signals contain information includingmaternal and fetal ECG and maternal EMG and/or any of the maternal andfetal parameters mentioned hereinabove.

With reference now to FIG. 2, sensor array apparatus 100 includesflexible substrate 202, medical electrodes E1-E8, reference electrode R,grounded reference electrode G, and connector 240. Flexible substrate202 is constructed of a flexible material capable of generallyconforming to the topography of a skin surface. Preferably, flexiblesubstrate 202 is formed from a material which is sufficiently flexibleand sufficiently strong to maintain its position on the patient and therelative positioning of electrodes E1-E8. Suitable materials includeMylar™ or any other biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalatepolyester films, Teslin™ or any other polyolefin silica blend, naturalwoven fibers, synthetic non-woven material or paper.

Flexible substrate 202 includes central portion 204 and at least onefinger-like projection 206A-206F. Central portion 204 may define centralfocal point, represented as numeral 208, on the flexible substrate 202.Central focal point 208 corresponds to the central location of substrate202. Finger-like projections 206A-206F extend radially outwardly fromcentral portion 204. In one preferred embodiment, flexible substrate 202contains six finger-like projections 206A-206F. However, it isenvisioned that flexible substrate 202 may have more or less than sixfinger-like projections 206.

The specific application determines the shape of the flexible substrate202 and the number and arrangement of the finger-like projections 206.In FIG. 2, the flexible substrate 202 and finger-like projections206A-206F are generally arranged in a symmetrical arrangement withrespect to the axis of symmetry 222 which divides the flexible substrate202 into two sections. Finger-like projections 206A, 206C, 206E aredisposed on one side of the axis of symmetry 222 and opposingfinger-like projection 206B, 206D, 206F are disposed on the oppositeside of the axis of symmetry 222. Thus, sensor apparatus 100 includingsubstrate 202, and, more particularly, the electrode arrangement, issymmetrically arranged about the axis of symmetry 222.

In an alternate embodiment, flexible substrate 202 may be scored orseparated along the axis of symmetry 222 into two separate sensorarrays. Such arrangements may facilitate placement of sensor arrayapparatus on the abdomen. Each half of the sensor array may contain acentral portion adjacent a central focal point, finger-like projectionsextending radially outward from the central portion, medical electrodeand a connector adapted to connect to an electronic system.

Returning again to FIG. 2, each finger-like projections 206A-206Fincludes at least one electrode E1-E8 in electrical communication withconnector 240 which is adapted to connect to an electronic system. Anymeans for mounting electrodes E1-E8 to substrate 202 are envisioned. Onesingle electrode E1, E2, E5, E4 is disposed on four of the sixfinger-like projections 206C-206F. Two electrodes E6, E7 and E3, E8 arerespectively disposed on finger-like projections 206A, 206B. ElectrodesE1-E8 are each a predetermined distance relative to reference electrodeR. In FIG. 2, the respective distances between the reference electrode Rand electrodes E1, E2, E4 and E5 are substantially equivalent.Similarly, the respective distances between the reference electrode Rand the electrode pair E7, E8 and the electrode pair E3, E6 aresubstantially equivalent. Thus, when flexible substrate 202 is appliedto a non-linear or curved skin surface such as the abdomen of a pregnantfemale subject, the relative distances of the corresponding electrodesE1-E8 remain proportionally substantially equivalent with respect toreference electrode R and with respect to the remaining correspondingelectrodes. Thus, this arrangement provides for accurate and consistentelectrode placement on the curved skin surface, which thereby enhancesthe reliability and accuracy of the clinical data acquired during themonitoring process.

In a preferred system or application, electrodes E1-E8 are unipolar ormonopolar electrodes. In a unipolar system, electrodes E1-E8 measureelectrical activity relative to reference electrode R. Referenceelectrode R is generally disposed in central portion 204 of flexiblesubstrate 202 or generally aligned with central focal point 208 of theflexible substrate 202. Electrical activity at each electrode E1-E8 ismeasured with respect to the reference electrode R. A single referenceelectrode R is illustrated although it is envisioned that multiplereference electrodes may be utilized.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, conductive traces 231 place theelectrodes E1-E8, R, G and the connector 240 in electricalcommunication. Conductive traces 231 can be printed directly ontoflexible substrate 202 if the flexible substrate 202 is a dielectric.Alternatively, conductive traces 231 may be printed on a separatecarrier sheet if flexible substrate 202 is not a dielectric material.Various methods of printing electrical traces 231 include silk screenprinting, photoengraving, chemical etching, laser etching or maskelectrode. Stretchable conductors, such as stretchable gold stripconductors, may be used with a flexible substrate that exhibitselongation properties as will be discussed.

Flexible substrate 202 may include one or more shielding layers toprovide electrical shielding for at least a portion of the conductivetraces 231 and/or one or more of the electrodes E1-E8, R.

In use of sensor array apparatus 100 as depicted in FIG. 2, flexiblesubstrate 202 is applied to, e.g., the abdomen of the female pregnantsubject. In one preferred arrangement, the umbilicus is used as areference point and flexible substrate 202 is positioned onto theabdomen such that central focal point 208 is substantially aligned withthe umbilicus. Flexible substrate 202 is arranged about the midline ofthe patient's abdomen (i.e., the vertical line extending up the abdomenand intersecting the umbilicus) with corresponding finger-likeprojections 206A-F and electrodes E1-E8 symmetrically arranged about thepatient's midline. The electronic system is activated and data iscollected by the electrodes E1-E8. This procedure may be repeatedseveral times if desired. With each application, the umbilicus may beused as a reference point for application of flexible substrate 202thereby ensuring accurate and consistent placement of the electrodes forsuccessive data acquisition procedures.

In an alternative embodiment, flexible substrate 202 of sensor arrayapparatus 100 may exhibit properties of elongation. With thisarrangement, placement on the abdomen may be accomplished by utilizingan electrode placement template. The electrode placement templatedetails the desired arrangement of the electrode array. Thus, whenplaced on the abdomen, electrode placement locations may be marked onthe patient's skin with the use of the template. Each marked location isa predetermined distance along the skin relative to the referenceelectrode. The marked locations for each unipolar electrode are apredetermined distance from the marked location for the referenceelectrode. The flexible substrate is elongated and placed on the abdomensuch that each electrode is positioned on the marked locations. Multipletemplates may ensure proper placement on various sized patients.

With a flexible substrate 202 incorporating elongation characteristics,means may be provided for preventing conductive traces 231 from breakingwhen flexible substrate 202 is elongated. Such means may includeincorporating a zigzag pattern (e.g., accordion-structure or bellows)within conductive traces 231, which straightens when flexible substrate202 is elongated. Alternatively, portions of flexible substrate 202 andcorresponding traces 231 may be folded over such that the folded sectionprovides additional length when the substrate is elongated. As a furtheralternative, conductive traces 231 may be formed of a material such asgold which exhibits a limited range of stretching or elongation.

Flexible substrate 202 also may be formed of material with an elasticmemory. With an elastic memory material, flexible substrate 202 willremain under tension when elongated, but, is biased to return to itsoriginal shape. Placing flexible substrate 202 under constant tensionwould enable the measurement of tension changes due to physicalmovements of the abdomen by the placement of a strain gauge device onthe flexible substrate 202. Flexible substrate 202 may also be formedwith materials without elastic memory. Materials without elastic memoryexhibit elongation properties but once elongated, remain elongated anddo not attempt to return to the original shape and length.

Furthermore, flexible substrate 202 may also be formed with multiplematerials with or without elongation properties. Creation of elongationzones would enable some portions of the substrate to stretch, such asthe finger-like projections, while sections without elongationproperties would maintain in a fixed relationship to each other.

Referring now to FIG. 2A, finger-like projections 206 of the sensorarray apparatus 200 need not be symmetrically arranged. Offsetfinger-like projections 206 a, 206 b are not symmetric about the axis ofsymmetry 222. Offset finger-like projections 206 a, 206 b extendradially outward from the central portion 208. Electrodes E6, E7 and E3,E8, while disposed on the periphery of the flexible substrate 202, arenot symmetrically arranged.

Referring now to FIG. 3, another embodiment of sensor array apparatus300 is disclosed. Sensor array apparatus 300 contains flexible substrate302 which defines reference aperture 305. Flexible substrate 302 isdesigned for placement on the abdomen of a pregnant patient andreference aperture 305 is configured to at least partially encapsulate abody structure such as umbilicus tissue. According to the presentdisclosure, partially encapsulating a body structure is the placement ofa material adjacent to a body structure such that at least a portion ofthe material partially surrounds or partially encircles the bodystructure.

Placement of substrate 302 on the patient, with the umbilicus centeredin the reference aperture 305, ensures proper and ideal placement of theelectrodes E1-E8, R, G on the patient. In general, the body structure isinserted through or positioned under reference aperture 305 to allow theflexible substrate 302 to be placed on the patient skin and accommodatethe natural topography or curvature of the body. The body structure mayserve as a reference for the medical personnel to ensure proper andconsistent placement of the sensor array. The location of the aperture305 ensures that all electrodes are properly placed relative to the bodystructure. The shape of aperture 305 may be adjusted to accommodate thespecific shape of the body structure and may aid medical personnel byindicating the proper orientation.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, electrodes E1-E8 are also unipolar. Theelectronic system (not shown) connects to connector 340 and measures thesignal at each electrode relative to a reference electrode R. Referenceelectrode R surrounds or encircles the reference aperture 305 and theportion of the umbilicus contained therewithin. The electronic systemmeasures the average electrical activity generated between eachelectrode E1-E8 and reference electrode R at a particular moment intime. The sensor array apparatus 300 provides the electronic system withthe average electrical activity at a plurality of locations on theabdomen.

Reference aperture 305 and reference electrode R permit sensor apparatus300 to be oriented such that the connector 340 can be accessed fromeither side of the patient. Placement of electrodes E6, E7 between theumbilicus and the pubic region will place the connector on one side ofthe patient while placement of electrodes E8, E3 between the umbilicusand the pubic region will place the connector on the opposite side ofthe patient. In both orientations, the electrodes placement pattern onthe abdomen is substantially identical.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of sensor array apparatus 400.Flexible substrate 402 defines two reference apertures 405 a 405 b, eachaperture capable of at least partially encapsulating umbilicus tissue.Reference electrode R and grounded reference electrode G are disposed onthe central portion between the two reference apertures 405 a, 405 b. Inthis embodiment, the proper location of the reference electrode R andthe grounded reference electrode G is above the umbilicus. The tworeference apertures 405 a, 405 b on opposing sides of the referenceelectrode R and grounded reference electrode G allow substantiallyidentical electrode placement patterns on the abdomen, with thereference electrode R and the grounded reference electrode G above theumbilicus, regardless of which side the patient the electrical connector440 is placed.

FIG. 4A illustrates finger-like projections 202 with elongated referenceapertures 499 a, 499 b in the sensor array apparatus 400. The bodystructure may be placed anywhere within the elongated referenceapertures 499 a, 499 b. The elongated reference aperture 499 a, 499 bpermits the placement of the reference electrode R to vary relative tothe body structure.

FIGS. 5 and 5 a illustrate placement of sensor array apparatus 400 ofFIG. 4 on the abdomen 520 of the pregnant patient 510. In FIG. 5,reference aperture 505 b closest to pubis region 522 is positioned suchthat umbilicus 521, or at least the portion of the umbilicus extendingabove abdomen 520, protrudes through, or is positioned under, referenceaperture 505 b. Connector 540 is accessible from the left side of thepatient. In FIG. 5 a, reference aperture 505 a located closest to thepubis region 522 is positioned such that umbilicus 521, or at least theportion of the umbilicus extending above abdomen 520, is protrudingthrough reference aperture 505 a. The connector 540 is accessible fromthe right side of the patient. Reference electrode (not shown) and thegrounded reference electrode (not shown), both located between thereference apertures 505 a 505 b, are properly positioned above theumbilicus in both configurations.

FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the present disclosure. Sensorarray apparatus 600 includes flexible substrate 602 including annularmember 604 and a plurality of radial tabs 606 extending radiallyoutwardly from the annular member 604. Annular member 604 definesenlarged central aperture 605 arranged about central focal point 608which is the proximate center of the flexible substrate 602. A pluralityof medical electrodes E1-E8, R is peripherally disposed with respect tothe annular member 604. Eight electrodes E1-E8 are disposed on radialtabs 606 adjacent the outer periphery of annular member 604 and anannular reference electrode R is disposed adjacent the inner peripheryof the annular member 604. Reference electrode R encircles aperture 605thereby placing each of the electrodes E1-E8 disposed on radial tabs 606at substantially equal distances with respect to reference electrode R.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, flexible substrate 602 may bevarious shapes and sizes. In FIG. 6 a, flexible substrate 602 in isgenerally rectangular shaped with outwardly depending tabs 606.Electrical connector 640 may be disposed on the short side of therectangle. Eight electrodes E1-E8 are disposed on radial tabs 606 of theflexible substrate 602. A reference electrode R, deposed on the innerperiphery of enclosed member 604 of flexible substrate 602, extendsaround the perimeter of the aperture 605.

Flexible substrate 602 in FIG. 6 b is generally square with theelectrical connector 640 disposed on a side. Eight electrodes E1-E8 aredisposed on radial tabs 606 and reference electrode R, is disposedadjacent the inner periphery of enclosed member 604 of flexiblesubstrate 602 encircling aperture 605.

The flexible substrate 602 in FIG. 6 c is generally hexagonal in shapewith the electrical connector 640 located at one vertex. Six electrodesE1-E4, E7-E8 are disposed on tabs 606 of flexible substrate 602.Reference electrode R, disposed on the inner periphery of flexiblesubstrate 602, extends around the perimeter of the aperture 605. Twoelectrodes E5-E6 are disposed on the inner periphery of the apparatus oninwardly finger-like projections 606 a, 606 b of the flexible substrate602.

In FIGS. 6, 6 a, 6 b, and 6 c, the general shape of the flexiblesubstrate 602 define a central focal point 608, with the central focalpoint 608 adjacent the geometrical center of each shape. Properpositioning of the sensor array apparatus 600 on the abdomen of apregnant female places the umbilicus adjacent the central focal point608. In use, the electrodes E1-E8 disposed on tabs 606 of flexiblesubstrate 602 are distributed on the abdomen in predetermined positionsrelative to each other and the reference electrode R. The averageelectrical activity between the reference electrode R and each unipolarmedical electrode E1-E8 is measured by the electronic system.

Flexible substrate 602 may define one or more apertures with the shapeof the apertures being independent of the overall shape of the flexiblesubstrate 602. The apertures in FIGS. 6, 6 a and 6 b may be circular,rectangular with rounded corners and square. In FIG. 6 c, the shape ofthe aperture 606 is defined by tabs 606 a,b which extend into theaperture 607 and positions the electrodes E5, E6 on the inner peripheryof flexible substrate 602.

Referring now again to FIG. 6, the minimum size of the aperture 605 isdetermined by the curvature of the skin surface and the body structurethe aperture 605 must accommodate. The abdomen of a first-trimesterpregnant female is relatively flat compared to the abdomen of a fullterm pregnant female and may require no aperture or a small aperture forthe umbilicus. On the other hand, the abdomen of a full term pregnantfemale, with an extended umbilicus, may require a large aperture and theflexible substrate may be narrow to accommodate the curvature of theabdomen.

The maximum size of the aperture is determined by the shape of theflexible substrate, the number of electrodes, the number and width ofthe traces printed on the flexible substrate, the location of theelectrodes on the abdomen, and the predetermined distance between thereference electrode R and each of the medical electrodes E1-E8.

With continued reference to FIGS. 6, 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, electrodes E1-E8disposed on the flexible substrate 602 are arranged in variousconfigurations. In this particular application, the placement of asensor array apparatus 600 on the abdomen of a pregnant female,electrodes E1-E8 are generally symmetrically arranged about an axis ofsymmetry 622 with the reference electrode a fixed distance along theskin from each electrode E1-E8. For other applications, the electrodesmay not be symmetrically arranged.

With particular reference to FIGS. 6 and 6 b, electrodes E1-E8 arepositioned a substantially similar predetermined radial distance D withrespect to the central focal point 608.

With particular reference to FIGS. 6 a and 6 c, electrodes aredistributed into two groups with the electrodes in each group at asubstantially similar predetermined radial distance with respect to thecentral focal point 608 although the distance for each electrode groupis not the same. In FIG. 6 a electrodes E3, E4, E5 and E6 are a fixeddistance D1 from the central focal point 608 and electrodes E1, E2, E7and E8 are a fixed distance D2 from the central focal point 608, whereinD1 does not equal D2. In FIG. 6 c, electrodes E1, E2, E3, E4, E7 and E8are a fixed distance D3 from the central focal point 608 and the secondgroup containing electrodes E5, E6 are a distance D4 from the centralfocal point 608, wherein D3 does not equal D4.

Referring still to FIGS. 6, 6 a, 6 b and 6 c, electrodes E1-E8 areunipolar electrodes. The electronic system measures the signal at eachunipolar electrode E1-E8 relative to a reference electrode R. In FIGS.6, 6 a, 6 b, and 6 c, the reference electrode R surrounds or encirclesthe aperture 605 and places a portion of the reference electrode R afixed distance from each of the unipolar electrodes E1-E8. In FIGS. 6, 6a and 6 b, the distance from each electrode E1-E8 and the referenceelectrode R on each sensor array 600 is substantially the same, with therespective distances equal to D5, D6, D7. In each sensor arrayapparatus, the distances D5, D6, D7 between the electrodes E1-E8 and thereference electrode R must be sufficiently large to obtain a signalwhich represents the average electrical activity generated between eachelectrode and the reference electrode R at a particular moment in time.The plurality of electrodes disposed on sensor array 600 provides theelectronic system with the average electrical activity at a plurality oflocations on the abdomen.

Referring now to FIG. 6 c, the distance from each electrode E1-E8 andthe reference electrode R is not equal. The first group of electrodesE1-E4, E7-E8 is a substantially similar distance D8 from the referenceelectrode R while the second group of electrodes E5, E6 are located asubstantially similar distance D9 from the reference electrode R,wherein the two distances D8, D9 are not equal.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the present disclosure. Sensorarray apparatus 700 includes a separate second flexible substrate 702A,associated with the central focal point 708. Reference electrode R andgrounded reference electrode G are disposed on second flexible substrate702A and are in electrical communication with a second connector 741adapted to connect with an electronic system (not shown). The electronicsystem (not shown) monitors bio-electrical information between thereference electrode R and each of the medical electrodes E1-E8.

The second flexible substrate 702A defines reference aperture 705adapted to at least partially encapsulate umbilicus tissue. In FIG. 7,the reference aperture 705 fully encapsulates a portion of theumbilicus. The reference electrode R, disposed on the second flexiblesubstrate 702A extends around the perimeter of the reference aperture705. A reference electrode R and the grounded reference electrode G aredisposed on the second flexible substrate 702A, adjacent the referenceaperture 705.

The first and second flexible substrates 702, 702A are both placed onthe abdomen relative to the umbilicus. The first flexible substrate 702is positioned such that central focal point 708 is adjacent theumbilicus and second flexible substrate 702A is positioned such that atleast a portion of the umbilicus is positioned within the referenceaperture 705. Since the first and second flexible substrates 702,702Aare both positioned relative to the umbilicus, the reference electrode Ris a predetermined distance from each of the medical electrodes E1-E8.In FIG. 7, the predetermined distance for each electrode D10 issubstantially the same. Referring now to FIG. 7, the shape of secondflexible substrate 702A assists medical personnel with the properorientation of the second flexible substrate 702A. In this embodiment,the proper placement of the grounded reference electrode G is below theumbilicus. Pointing the vertex of second flexible substrate 702A towardthe pubis region places the grounded reference electrode G in the properposition relative to the umbilicus.

FIG. 8 illustrates another alternate embodiment of the presentdisclosure. In FIG. 8, the distances D11, D12, D13, D14 between thereference electrode R and electrodes in four sets of electrode aresubstantially the same, while the distance for each set of pairs are notequal (i.e. D11≠D12≠D13≠D14.)

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment. Sensor array apparatus 900includes a flexible substrate 902, a first section 902A associated withthe central focal point 908 and a second section 902B associated withthe outer periphery. The first and second sections 902A, 902B aremechanically connected and define at least one aperture between thefirst and second sections 902A, 902B. In the preferred embodiment, firstand second sections 902A, 902B are connected through respective radiallinks 923, 924, 925 and define three apertures 907, 908, 909.

First section 902A also defines reference aperture 905. As discussed inthe prior embodiments, reference aperture 905 at least partiallyencapsulates a portion of the umbilicus when placed on the abdomen of apregnant female. In use, the placement of the umbilicus within thereference aperture 905 ensures proper placement of the sensor array 900on the abdomen.

Reference electrode R and grounded reference electrode G are disposed onthe first section 902A of the flexible substrate 902. In this particularembodiment, reference electrode R surrounds reference aperture 905insuring the distance between the reference electrode R and each of themedical electrodes, E1-E8, is a predetermined distance and thepredetermined distance for each electrode E1-E8 is substantially thesame. The reference electrode R and the grounded reference electrode Gare in electrical communications by traces 231 printed on the flexiblesubstrate 902.

It is to be understood that the foregoing description is merely adisclosure of particular embodiments and is in no way intended to limitthe scope of the disclosure. Other possible modifications will beapparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to be within thescope of the present disclosure.

It is still further envisioned for several of the disclosed embodimentsto be used in combination with each other.

1. A sensor array apparatus for monitoring medical signals, whichcomprises: a flexible substrate adapted to generally conform to atopography of a skin surface, said flexible substrate including acentral portion arranged about a central focal point and a plurality offinger-like projections extending radially outwardly from said centralportion; a medical electrode disposed on at least one of saidfinger-like projections; and a connector in electrical communicationwith said medical electrode and adapted to connect to an electronicsystem.
 2. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1 including atleast one reference electrode disposed on said central portion of saidsubstrate.
 3. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1 whereineach said finger-like projection includes at least one medical electrodedisposed thereon.
 4. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 3including at least one reference electrode mounted to said centralportion of said substrate.
 5. The sensor array apparatus according toclaim 4 wherein said reference electrode is generally aligned withrespect to said central focal point of said central portion.
 6. Thesensor array apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said medicalelectrodes disposed on said finger-like projections are a predetermineddistance relative to said reference electrode when said flexiblesubstrate is applied along the skin surface, whereby said predetermineddistance for at least some of said electrodes is substantially the same.7. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said flexiblesubstrate is generally symmetrically arranged about an axis of symmetrywhereby a finger like projection on one side of the axis of symmetry hasa corresponding finger-like projection on the opposite side of the axisof symmetry.
 8. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 4 whereinsaid flexible substrate is generally symmetrically arranged about anaxis of symmetry whereby a finger like projection on one side of theaxis of symmetry has a corresponding finger-like projection on theopposite side of the axis of symmetry.
 9. The sensor array apparatusaccording to claim 8 wherein said electrodes disposed on correspondingfinger-like projections on each side of the axis of symmetry are spacedat substantially equal distances relative to said reference electrodewhen said flexible substrate is applied along the skin surface.
 10. Thesensor array apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said flexiblesubstrate includes properties of elongation.
 11. The sensor arrayapparatus according to claim 1 wherein said flexible substrate is adielectric
 12. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1 whereinsaid flexible substrate is selected from a group consisting ofbiaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate polyester film, polyolefinsilica blend, natural woven fibers, synthetic non-woven material orpaper
 13. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1 wherein saidflexible substrate defines at least one reference aperture foraccommodating a body structure.
 14. The sensor array apparatus accordingto claim 13 wherein said at least one reference aperture is adapted toat least partially encapsulate umbilicus tissue.
 15. The sensor arrayapparatus according to claim 13 wherein said flexible substrate definestwo reference apertures.
 16. The sensor array apparatus according toclaim 15 wherein the orientation of said flexible substrate can berotated to provide access to said electrical connector from either sideof patent tissue and one of said two reference apertures partiallyencapsulates umbilicus tissue.
 17. The sensor array apparatus accordingto claim 13 including: at least one reference electrode disposed on saidcentral portion of said flexible substrate; and two apertures adapted topermit said connector to interface with said electronic system fromeither side of patient tissue.
 18. The sensor array apparatus accordingto claim 1 wherein at least one of said medical electrodes is disposedon said flexible substrate, wherein conductive traces disposed on saidflexible substrate connect said at least one medical electrode to saidconnector.
 19. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 18 whereinsaid conductive traces are disposed on said flexible substrate by a silkscreen printing process, photoengraving process, chemical etchingprocess, laser etching process or masking process.
 20. The sensor arrayapparatus according to claim 19 wherein said conductive traces arecovered by dielectric material and said medical electrodes are coveredby conductive gel.
 21. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 1wherein said medical electrodes include: a reference electrode adjacentsaid central portion; at least one monopolar medical electrode in aunipolar arrangement on each of said finger-like projections; wherebybio-electric information is monitored between at least one of saidunipolar electrodes and said reference electrode.
 22. A sensor arrayapparatus for monitoring medical signals, which comprises: a flexiblesubstrate defining a central focal point; a plurality of medicalelectrodes disposed on the periphery of said flexible substrate; and atleast one connector in electrical communication with said medicalelectrodes and adapted to connect to an electronic system.
 23. Thesensor array apparatus according to claim 22 wherein said flexiblesubstrate generally defines a shape selected from a group consisting ofa circle, triangle, square, rectangle, polygon, or oval.
 24. The sensorarray apparatus according to claim 22 wherein said electrodes aredisposed at substantially equal predetermined radial distances withrespect to said central focal point.
 25. The sensor array apparatusaccording to claim 22 wherein said electrodes are generallysymmetrically arranged on said flexible substrate about an axis ofsymmetry whereby a medical electrode on one side of said axis ofsymmetry has a corresponding medical electrode on the opposite side ofsaid axis of symmetry.
 26. The sensor array apparatus according to claim22 further including a reference electrode.
 27. The sensor arrayapparatus according to claim 26 wherein said reference electrode definesat least one reference aperture for partially encapsulating a bodystructure.
 28. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 26 whereinsaid reference electrode extends around the inner perimeter of saidflexible substrate.
 29. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 28wherein said plurality of medical electrodes are each spaced atsubstantially equal distances with respect to said reference electrode.30. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 22 further including:a second flexible substrate associated with said central focal point;and a reference electrode disposed on said second flexible substratewhereby bio-electric information is monitored between at least one ofsaid medical electrodes and said reference electrode.
 31. The sensorarray apparatus according to claim 30 wherein said second flexiblesubstrate associated with said central focal point and said flexiblesubstrate associated with the periphery of said central focal point arein mechanical communication.
 32. The sensor array apparatus according toclaim 26 wherein second flexible substrate defines at least onereference aperture adapted to at least partially encapsulate umbilicustissue.
 33. The sensor array apparatus according to claim 32 whereinsaid reference electrode extends around the inner perimeter of saidreference aperture and each of said medical electrodes are apredetermined distance along the skin relative to said referenceelectrode, whereby said predetermined distance for each electrode issubstantially the same.